A Walking Safari: Kruger on Foot

Kruger National Park is a safari gem. It’s one of the largest game reserves in Africa and a premier safari destination, an African paradise teeming with the Big Five and other wild animals. There are many different ways to explore Kruger and its wildlife, but there is no better way to discover the magic of the national park than on a walking safari. Travellers will be surrounded by nothing but pristine wilderness and the stillness of the bush. A walking safari gives you the rare opportunity to explore game-filled plains like a safari explorer of a bygone era.

Before you embark on your adventure on foot, here’s what to expect on a Kruger walking safari.

Close-up wildlife encounters A highlight of a walking safari is the thrill of the unknown – you never know what animals you may encounter. Not to mention the opportunity to see these animals up close, the way adventurers of yesteryear would have encountered them. Don’t worry, a walking safari is perfectly safe! You will be in the care of a professional guide or ranger, who is trained to understand the animals and their behavior. To stay safe and to avoid disturbing the wildlife as much as possible, you’ll be required to follow a strict set of rules. Always be very quiet and still, and walk in a single file at all times. This way, everyone will enjoy the best of a walking safari.

Lots (and lots) of walking While a walking safari is considered more of a gentle stroll than a grueling hike, it’s a great way to get a bit of exercise and fresh air. Your own two feet will take you on an unexpected journey along paths and trails that a game vehicle cannot navigate. Be sure to wear a comfortable pair of walking shoes, and long trousers to protect your legs from thorns and insects. Neutral-coloured clothing is a must in order to avoid attracting the attention of animals. Other walking safari essentials include a pair of sunglasses, a hat and sunscreen. For an enhanced game viewing experience, bring a pair of binoculars with you. It’s a great item for spotting a pride of lions or a herd of elephants in the distance!

Insight into life in the bush A Kruger walking safari is an educational experience as much as it is a fun one. You’ll learn everything there is to know about the park and its wildlife from your knowledgeable guides. With years of experience, these safari experts will share their knowledge of the bush and its inhabitants. Learn how to identify tracks, how to behave when approaching animals and how to spot elusive animals and birds. This safari activity is unique in that you’ll discover the intricacies of life in the bush while surrounded by the bush – sans hordes of tourists and the roar of the safari vehicle’s engine.

The chance to see smaller creatures and critters While the Big Five can be spotted on game drives, the thrill of a walking safari is being able to spot the smaller wildlife up close. The Little Five – elephant shrew, buffalo weaver, leopard tortoise, antlion and rhino beetle – can all be seen during these walks. These creatures roam the dusty paths and grasslands of the park and your guide will be able to help you spot these tiny critters. You’ll also be able to appreciate the local plants and flowers that you would have otherwise missed on a game drive.

Awesome photographic opportunities Shutterbugs on holiday in Kruger National Park won’t want to miss out on a walking safari. A walk through the bush presents photographers with the perfect opportunity to capture beautiful images. Panoramic views are plenty and come without the hassle of struggling to get the best angle. You’ll get the opportunity to stop and take photos of the animals you encounter, and the surrounding landscapes. While rangers will try to get you as close to the animals as possible, a zoom lens will help you to get a clear and close shot. On a Kruger walking safari, you’re guaranteed to return home with more than a few awesome snapshots.

The Best Lodges for a Walking Safari

Relax and unwind, breath in the fresh air and take in the sounds of the bush. See the Big Five, the Little Five and the other wild animals that call Greater Kruger National Park their home.

Here are four first-rate lodges in the Greater Kruger area that offer the best walking safaris:

Phelwana Game Lodge Enjoy a one-hour walk accompanied by an expert safari guide at Phelwana Game Lodge. Guests will enjoy a warm beverage at the lodge before the walking safari, and a delicious breakfast afterwards. Travellers can expect to see plenty of fauna and flora, as well as herds of zebra, giraffe and antelope.

Jock Safari Lodge Walking safaris at Jock Safari Lodge are conducted in the heart of Kruger’s bushveld after a sumptuous breakfast. These wilderness walks are conducted by qualified walking guides, and safari-goers will enjoy some of the most beautiful vistas imaginable.

Lukimbi Safari Lodge See great game animals and smaller creatures in their natural environment on a two-hour bush walk at Lukimbi Safari Lodge. The relaxing walk is conducted by a qualified guide who will share their knowledge of the bush and its inhabitants.

The Outpost Set in the most remote part of the Kruger National Park, The Outpost’s setting is perfect for a walking safari. After a breakfast at the lodge, travellers set out on a safari walk that is both thrilling and educational.

Ready to embark on a walking safari in Kruger National Park? Let us organise your tailor-made getaway featuring an unforgettable walking safari, as well as superb accommodation and other wildlife experiences.

Tayla-Ann Rodger is a web content writer for East Cape Tours. She has an Honours degree in Media Studies from Nelson Mandela University, where she majored in English and Design and Layout. Her passions include graphic design, literature and online shopping.